License for Cargo Consolidators and Logistics Companies in Nigeria

(Complete Regulatory Guide, Requirements, Costs & Procedures)

The logistics and cargo consolidation industry in Nigeria is highly regulated. Any individual or company intending to operate as a cargo consolidator, freight forwarder, courier, or logistics service provider must obtain approvals, registrations, or licenses from the relevant government MDAs (Ministries, Departments and Agencies).

What Is a Cargo Consolidator?

A cargo consolidator is a company that combines multiple shipments from different shippers into a single container or consignment for transportation by sea, air, or land, and later deconsolidates them at destination.

Cargo consolidation helps reduce shipping costs, optimise space, and improve logistics efficiency. Because consolidators operate within ports, airports, and regulated logistics corridors, they are subject to multiple regulatory frameworks in Nigeria.

Is There a Single License for Cargo Consolidators in Nigeria?

No.
There is no single, universal license called “Cargo Consolidator License” in Nigeria.

Instead, licensing and regulation are handled by different MDAs, depending on the nature of the operation:

• Port-based cargo consolidation

• Freight forwarding and clearing

• Courier and last-mile logistics

• Air cargo consolidation

Most operators require more than one registration or license to operate lawfully.

Regulatory Authorities for Cargo Consolidators and Logistics Companies

The principal MDAs responsible for licensing and regulation are:

1. Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC)

Regulates port service providers, including cargo consolidators, logistics operators, and other service providers operating within Nigerian ports.

2. Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN)

Regulates freight forwarding practice in Nigeria and licenses freight forwarding professionals and companies.

3. Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST)

Issues courier and logistics operating licenses for last-mile delivery and logistics companies.

4. Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)

Regulates air cargo consolidators and cargo agents involved in air freight operations.

License for Cargo Consolidators (Port-Based Operations)

Issuing Authority

Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC)

Legal Basis

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council regulates Regulated Port Service Providers, a category that expressly includes cargo consolidators and logistics service providers operating within Nigerian ports.

Requirements for NSC Registration (Cargo Consolidators)

To be registered as a cargo consolidator with the NSC, the applicant must provide:

• Certificate of Incorporation (CAC)

• Memorandum and Articles of Association (objects must include logistics/consolidation)

• Completed NSC application form

• Company profile

• Valid means of identification of directors

• Evidence of payment of prescribed fees

Procedure for NSC Registration

1. Create an account on the NSC Regulated Port Service Provider Portal

2. Complete the online application form

3. Upload required documents

4. Pay the prescribed registration fee

5. Application review by NSC

6. Issuance of Registration/Recognition

7. Annual renewal and compliance monitoring

Cost of NSC Cargo Consolidator Registration

This fee is payable per annum and subject to renewal.

Freight Forwarding License (CRFFN)

Any company or individual engaged in freight forwarding, clearing, or cargo documentation must be registered with CRFFN.

Issuing Authority

Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN)

CRFFN Requirements

• CAC Certificate and incorporation documents

• Evidence of tax compliance

• Bank reference

• Sworn affidavit of good character

• Evidence of professional training from CRFFN-accredited institutions

• Completed CRFFN application form

• Payment of prescribed fees

CRFFN Licensing Process

1. Complete CRFFN registration form

2. Submit required documents

3. Undergo required professional training (where applicable)

4. Pay application and practicing fees

5. Issuance of CRFFN Certificate / License

6. Annual renewal

Important: CRFFN places strong emphasis on professional training and certification.

Courier and Logistics License (NIPOST)

Companies involved in dispatch, last-mile delivery, express courier services, and logistics must obtain a courier license from NIPOST.

Issuing Authority

Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST)

Categories of NIPOST Courier Licenses

NIPOST Requirements

• CAC registration documents

• Courier business plan

• List of vehicles and motorcycles

• Insurance cover

• Staff details

• Office address

• Payment of applicable license fee

Air Cargo Consolidators (NCAA)

Cargo consolidators involved in air freight operations must comply with NCAA regulations.

Issuing Authority

Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)

NCAA Regulatory Scope

• Licensing of air cargo agents

• Economic regulation of air transport services

• Monitoring and compliance enforcement

• Safety and operational standards

NCAA approval is mandatory where cargo consolidation involves aircraft operations or airport cargo facilities.

Consolidated Licensing Checklist

Common Misconceptions About Cargo Consolidator Licensing

“One license covers everything”

False.
Multiple licenses are required depending on operational scope.

“CRFFN registration is optional”

False.
Freight forwarding without CRFFN registration is unlawful.

“Courier companies don’t need regulation”

False.
NIPOST licenses courier and logistics operators nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

Who issues a cargo consolidator license in Nigeria?

Cargo consolidators operating at ports are registered by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, while freight forwarding is regulated by CRFFN.

How much does it cost to register as a cargo consolidator?

NSC registration costs ₦30,000 annually, excluding professional or consultancy fees.

Can I operate without these licenses?

No. Operating without proper registration exposes the company to penalties, shutdown, and denial of port or airport access.

Do I need all four licenses?

Not necessarily. The licenses required depend on whether you operate at ports, airports, or as a courier/logistics company.

Conclusion

Obtaining a License for Cargo Consolidators and Logistics Companies in Nigeria is not a single-step process. It requires strategic regulatory compliance with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, CRFFN, NIPOST, and NCAA, depending on the nature of your operations.

Understanding these requirements early helps avoid regulatory sanctions, delays, and costly mistakes.